On the morning of August 1, “Fly Your Dream, Connect the World” 2025 the 5th Canal Cities MUN Conference officially opened in Yangzhou, Jiangsu Province.

The opening ceremony was attended by Chinese and international representatives, including:

• Chen Xi, Vice Chairman of the Yangzhou Municipal Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference

• Yuan Huizhong, Director of the Yangzhou Foreign Affairs Office

• Zhang Wenlong, Founder of Philadelphia Window

• Deng Qing and Yang Weimin, senior officials from the World Canal Cities Organization (WCCO)

• Katherine Campbell, Curriculum Director from Brigham Young University, Utah, USA

• Yuan Yuying, Vice Principal of Yangzhou University Affiliated High School

Co-organized by Philadelphia Window and Denuo International Education Group, the event was supported by the Yangzhou Education Bureau, the Yangzhou Foreign Affairs Office, and WCCO, with guidance from the United Organizations of Europe (UNE).

In his opening address, Chen Xi emphasized that the CCMUN helps broaden youth perspectives and foster teamwork. He encouraged young participants to contribute their vision and energy to shaping a better future.

Ms. Sophie Muller, UNHCR Representative in China, delivered a video message, highlighting the importance of bringing young people together to discuss critical global humanitarian issues.

Yang Weimin of WCCO noted that canals, as treasures of human civilization, serve as both economic arteries and bridges for cultural exchange and sustainable development. He urged youth to engage in preserving canal heritage and advancing green shipping.

Riccardo Messina, President of UNE, expressed in a video speech his hopes for the collaboration to nurture a new generation of global leaders equipped to tackle international challenges.

Katherine Campbell stressed the value of cross-cultural understanding and educational cooperation between Chinese and American youth in today’s globalized world.

Yuan Yuying drew parallels between the inclusive spirit of the Grand Canal and the MUN principle of “seeking common ground while reserving differences,” encouraging students to embrace diverse cultures and collaborate on global issues.

The conference was officially declared open by Mr. Zhang Wenlong.

Over the four-day event, youth delegates will simulate UN procedures, representing different countries and discussing pressing global topics such as AI technology sharing, rare disease research, and refugee protection.